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A Journey from Canalside Charm to Hanseatic Splendor

A Journey from Canalside Charm to Hanseatic Splendor

About This Cruise

Your journey begins in Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, which delights with its romantic canals, world-famous museums and unmistakable historical charm. As soon as you set sail, a fascinating view opens up of the city's waterways, which have shaped life and trade for centuries. From here, the cruise takes you northwards through the wide, flat landscapes of the Netherlands, past green meadows, windmills and idyllic villages.

In Enkhuizen and Lemmer, you can immerse yourself in the maritime heritage of the IJsselmeer. Historic harbors, traditional sailing ships and lovingly restored old towns tell of the great days of seafaring and life with and on the water. You then reach Groningen, a young, lively city that will surprise you with its historic old town, imposing churches and a vibrant cultural scene.

Your journey continues via Leer and Papenburg through the Frisian inland. This region is characterized by typical waterways, locks and canals, which make quiet and decelerated travel a special experience. In Papenburg, you can also expect an exciting contrast between tradition and modernity, not least thanks to the world-famous Meyer Werft shipyard.</p

In Oldenburg and Bremerhaven, you can experience genuine North German flair. Historic buildings, modern districts and a strong connection to the sea characterize the image of these cities, where maritime history and contemporary harbour atmosphere meet harmoniously.

The atmospheric highlight is the conclusion in Bremen. The city impresses with its impressive old town, the UNESCO-protected market square, the town hall and the famous Bremen Town Musicians. Your journey between Holland and northern Germany ends here in a particularly impressive way - rich in cultural discoveries, scenic impressions and maritime charm.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    VIVA RUBY is an adults-only ship

  • Couples

    An adults-only atmosphere made for two

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

  • Solo travellers

    Low or no single supplement on selected cabins

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

VIVA RUBY

Departure Date

10 May 2027

Cruise Line

VIVA Cruises

Duration

8 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of those cities that every traveler should visit at least once in their lifetime. It’s no wonder that millions upon millions of tourists flock to the city of canals every year to enjoy its abundance of sights and cultural offerings. The best way to discover Amsterdam is on a boat tour along the canals or a stroll along these unique waterways. Art lovers will be immediately drawn to one of the world-famous museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Stedelijk Museum, or the Van Gogh Museum. Partygoers will find their happy place in the nightlife and red-light district of De Wallen. And beer lovers should definitely not miss the Heineken Experience.

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of those cities that every traveler should visit at least once in their lifetime. It’s no wonder that millions upon millions of tourists flock to the city of canals every year to enjoy its abundance of sights and cultural offerings. The best way to discover Amsterdam is on a boat tour along the canals or a stroll along these unique waterways. Art lovers will be immediately drawn to one of the world-famous museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Stedelijk Museum, or the Van Gogh Museum. Partygoers will find their happy place in the nightlife and red-light district of De Wallen. And beer lovers should definitely not miss the Heineken Experience.

Netherlands

Enkhuizen

The idyllic small town of Enkhuizen, located in North Holland, offers visitors a wide variety of historic buildings and monuments. Its charming waterfront setting also invites visitors to take a stroll along the ramparts, the harbor, or the canals. A visit to the Zuiderzee Museum is well worth it to gain insight into the history of what was once the wealthiest town in the Netherlands.

Netherlands

Enkhuizen

The idyllic small town of Enkhuizen, located in North Holland, offers visitors a wide variety of historic buildings and monuments. Its charming waterfront setting also invites visitors to take a stroll along the ramparts, the harbor, or the canals. A visit to the Zuiderzee Museum is well worth it to gain insight into the history of what was once the wealthiest town in the Netherlands.

Netherlands

Lemmer

Lemmer in the Netherlands is an important Frisian water sports location. The tranquil port town is also popular in winter due to numerous parking lots that have been converted into ice skating rinks. Visitors are interested in the impressive technology of the world's last working steam bailer, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Lemmer Canal, with its cozy cafes and restaurants, invites visitors to stroll along the pier. Of historical interest is the Hervormde Kerk. The plain church with half-hourly chimes dates from 1716 and commemorates fallen soldiers with its memorial plaque. Lemmer's landmark, the Lemster Zeesluis, has rightly become a national monument as a monumental lock. To this day, it is a reminder of the once hard life of local fishermen and sailors. While die-hard bikers love the Tony Leenes Indian Motorcycle Museum, sun worshippers and sports enthusiasts swear by the fine sandy Lemmer beach.

Netherlands

Lemmer

Lemmer in the Netherlands is an important Frisian water sports location. The tranquil port town is also popular in winter due to numerous parking lots that have been converted into ice skating rinks. Visitors are interested in the impressive technology of the world's last working steam bailer, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Lemmer Canal, with its cozy cafes and restaurants, invites visitors to stroll along the pier. Of historical interest is the Hervormde Kerk. The plain church with half-hourly chimes dates from 1716 and commemorates fallen soldiers with its memorial plaque. Lemmer's landmark, the Lemster Zeesluis, has rightly become a national monument as a monumental lock. To this day, it is a reminder of the once hard life of local fishermen and sailors. While die-hard bikers love the Tony Leenes Indian Motorcycle Museum, sun worshippers and sports enthusiasts swear by the fine sandy Lemmer beach.

Netherlands

Groningen

The university city of Groningen in the Netherlands is the largest city in the northern part of the country, with a population of over 200,000. Its streets and squares, lined with notable buildings such as the Grain Exchange, City Hall, the synagogue, and several old townhouses, invite visitors to take a leisurely stroll. Along Canal A in the old harbor district, you’ll also find many well-preserved warehouses. While enjoying a coffee here, you can relax and watch the hustle and bustle on the water and along the banks. If you’d like to enjoy a view of the city, we recommend climbing the Martini Tower. The adjacent Martini Church on Grote Markt is both the oldest and largest church in Groningen. Museum lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in the city. The Groninger Museum impresses not only with its extensive collection of exhibits but also with its extraordinary architecture.

Netherlands

Groningen

The university city of Groningen in the Netherlands is the largest city in the northern part of the country, with a population of over 200,000. Its streets and squares, lined with notable buildings such as the Grain Exchange, City Hall, the synagogue, and several old townhouses, invite visitors to take a leisurely stroll. Along Canal A in the old harbor district, you’ll also find many well-preserved warehouses. While enjoying a coffee here, you can relax and watch the hustle and bustle on the water and along the banks. If you’d like to enjoy a view of the city, we recommend climbing the Martini Tower. The adjacent Martini Church on Grote Markt is both the oldest and largest church in Groningen. Museum lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in the city. The Groninger Museum impresses not only with its extensive collection of exhibits but also with its extraordinary architecture.

Germany

Leer

Leer, the county seat of Lower Saxony in East Frisia, is the third-largest city in this region, with an area of 70 km² and a population of about 35,000. Thanks to its centuries-old tradition, this seaport city on the Ems River is widely known as the gateway to the East Frisian Peninsula. Leer’s museum scene in East Frisia offers a wide variety of sights to see and marvel at—most notably the Tea Museum of the Bünting Group, which has its headquarters here. The local history museum and the museum harbor, featuring historic ships such as the former mail and passenger steamer Prinz Heinrich, offer fascinating insights into culture, history, and tradition alike. Leer’s downtown area is extremely attractive, with a vibrant retail scene spanning every conceivable industry. One of the highlights for locals and visitors alike is Leer’s weekly market—held every Wednesday and Saturday starting at 7:00 a.m. on Ernst-Reuter-Platz, between the pedestrian zone and the free port. The real gem, however, is Leer’s picturesque Old Town—with small shops, cozy tea rooms, and lovely restaurants where you can enjoy yourself, linger, and browse.

Germany

Leer

Leer, the county seat of Lower Saxony in East Frisia, is the third-largest city in this region, with an area of 70 km² and a population of about 35,000. Thanks to its centuries-old tradition, this seaport city on the Ems River is widely known as the gateway to the East Frisian Peninsula. Leer’s museum scene in East Frisia offers a wide variety of sights to see and marvel at—most notably the Tea Museum of the Bünting Group, which has its headquarters here. The local history museum and the museum harbor, featuring historic ships such as the former mail and passenger steamer Prinz Heinrich, offer fascinating insights into culture, history, and tradition alike. Leer’s downtown area is extremely attractive, with a vibrant retail scene spanning every conceivable industry. One of the highlights for locals and visitors alike is Leer’s weekly market—held every Wednesday and Saturday starting at 7:00 a.m. on Ernst-Reuter-Platz, between the pedestrian zone and the free port. The real gem, however, is Leer’s picturesque Old Town—with small shops, cozy tea rooms, and lovely restaurants where you can enjoy yourself, linger, and browse.

Germany

Papenburg

Papenburg is located in the Emsland region of Lower Saxony and is home to about 35,000 people. This German city is best known for its well-preserved old town. Numerous canals run through it, earning it the nickname “Venice of the North.” Around the main canal here, you’ll find shops selling souvenirs, decorative items, clothing, and much more. The dining options along the popular promenade also leave nothing to be desired. If you have enough time, you can explore the city from the water and take a harbor tour. It offers unique insights into the city’s architecture and history. One of the oldest structures in Papenburg is the post mill. Built in 1709, it is one of the most visited attractions in the city. A visit to the local Meyer Shipyard, which features its own exhibition on shipbuilding, is also a fascinating experience.

Germany

Bollingerfähr

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Germany

Oldenburg

With a population of about 170,000, Oldenburg—located on the Hunte, a tributary of the Weser, and approximately 50 kilometers east of Bremen—is the largest city in northwestern Lower Saxony. The charming city is nestled in a landscape characterized by gently rolling geest, moors, and marshlands. As the capital and administrative center of sovereign and semi-sovereign entities such as the Grand Duchy (1814–1918) and the Free State (1918–1946), the port city on the Hunte River has always been of great historical significance to its region—a significance that visitors to Oldenburg can experience firsthand on a stroll through the city center. At the top of the list of historically significant sights is Oldenburg Castle. Built in the Middle Ages and remodeled several times, the complex now serves as a museum inviting visitors to explore the history of the monarchy, cultural history, and art. But the old Lappan Bell Tower (15th century)—one of the landmarks of this university town—and the oldest townhouse, the “Schlaues Haus” (16th century), which now serves as a state-of-the-art event center for technological knowledge on Schlossplatz, are also definitely worth a visit.

Germany

Bremerhaven

The port city of Bremerhaven offers everything a mariner's heart desires. Besides the harbor, where many modern and old ships are docked, the German Maritime Museum enlightens about the maritime past and concisely refers to the relationship between man and the sea. Characterized by a distinctive atmosphere, you can have an exciting experience in the Klimahaus Bremerhaven. Here you are offered the opportunity to feel the different climate zones of the world. These distinctive and realistic effects, make you believe you are really in Antarctica or in the South American jungle - an event for young and old. The Bremerhaven is thus the port city of Germany and a must for every fan of ships and seas.

Germany

Bremerhaven

The port city of Bremerhaven offers everything a mariner's heart desires. Besides the harbor, where many modern and old ships are docked, the German Maritime Museum enlightens about the maritime past and concisely refers to the relationship between man and the sea. Characterized by a distinctive atmosphere, you can have an exciting experience in the Klimahaus Bremerhaven. Here you are offered the opportunity to feel the different climate zones of the world. These distinctive and realistic effects, make you believe you are really in Antarctica or in the South American jungle - an event for young and old. The Bremerhaven is thus the port city of Germany and a must for every fan of ships and seas.

Germany

Bremen

The city of Bremen, together with its northern outpost Bremerhaven, forms Germany’s smallest federal state. The centerpiece and landmark of Germany’s eleventh-largest city is the Bremen Roland, a statue of Roland on the central market square that was erected in 1404. The Roland stands directly in front of Bremen’s Gothic-style City Hall, with which it was jointly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. At City Hall, visitors will also find the Bremen Town Musicians, famous far beyond the city limits, who are more than just a great photo opportunity. It is said that touching the donkey’s front legs will make a wish come true. At the Schlachte, the historic riverside promenade along the Weser, visitors can round off their visit with a leisurely stroll or by relaxing in one of the many bars, cafés, and restaurants.

Germany

Bremen

The city of Bremen, together with its northern outpost Bremerhaven, forms Germany’s smallest federal state. The centerpiece and landmark of Germany’s eleventh-largest city is the Bremen Roland, a statue of Roland on the central market square that was erected in 1404. The Roland stands directly in front of Bremen’s Gothic-style City Hall, with which it was jointly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. At City Hall, visitors will also find the Bremen Town Musicians, famous far beyond the city limits, who are more than just a great photo opportunity. It is said that touching the donkey’s front legs will make a wish come true. At the Schlachte, the historic riverside promenade along the Weser, visitors can round off their visit with a leisurely stroll or by relaxing in one of the many bars, cafés, and restaurants.

Overview

Your journey begins in Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, which delights with its romantic canals, world-famous museums and unmistakable historical charm. As soon as you set sail, a fascinating view opens up of the city's waterways, which have shaped life and trade for centuries. From here, the cruise takes you northwards through the wide, flat landscapes of the Netherlands, past green meadows, windmills and idyllic villages.

In Enkhuizen and Lemmer, you can immerse yourself in the maritime heritage of the IJsselmeer. Historic harbors, traditional sailing ships and lovingly restored old towns tell of the great days of seafaring and life with and on the water. You then reach Groningen, a young, lively city that will surprise you with its historic old town, imposing churches and a vibrant cultural scene.

Your journey continues via Leer and Papenburg through the Frisian inland. This region is characterized by typical waterways, locks and canals, which make quiet and decelerated travel a special experience. In Papenburg, you can also expect an exciting contrast between tradition and modernity, not least thanks to the world-famous Meyer Werft shipyard.</p

In Oldenburg and Bremerhaven, you can experience genuine North German flair. Historic buildings, modern districts and a strong connection to the sea characterize the image of these cities, where maritime history and contemporary harbour atmosphere meet harmoniously.

The atmospheric highlight is the conclusion in Bremen. The city impresses with its impressive old town, the UNESCO-protected market square, the town hall and the famous Bremen Town Musicians. Your journey between Holland and northern Germany ends here in a particularly impressive way - rich in cultural discoveries, scenic impressions and maritime charm.

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Suite

Suite

  • 20 m²
  • Diamond Deck
  • Welcome Aperitif with Wine and Canapes
  • VIVA All-Inclusive

EQUIPMENT:

  • Priority embarkation (1 hour before check-in)
  • Welcome Aperitif with Wine and Canapes
  • 50 EUR laundry credit (per cabin)
  • Double bed
  • French balcony
  • Beauty products from RITUALS®
  • Flat screen TV
  • Minibar with free water, beer and soft drinks, refilled daily
  • Hair dryer
  • Free WLAN access
  • Telephone, safe and air conditioning/heating
  • Bathroom with shower
  • Generous storage space in wardrobes and under the bed
  • Work area

Outside

Double Cabin Diamond Deck

  • 13 m²
  • Diamond Deck
  • French balcony
  • VIVA All-Inclusive

EQUIPMENT:

  • Double bed
  • French balcony
  • Beauty products from RITUALS®
  • Flat screen TV
  • Minibar with free water, beer and soft drinks, refilled daily
  • Hair dryer
  • Free WLAN access
  • Telephone, safe and air conditioning/heating
  • Bathroom with shower
  • Generous storage space in wardrobes and under the bed
  • Work area

Outside

Double Cabin Emerald Deck

  • 13 m²
  • Emerald Deck
  • Window (cannot be opened)
  • VIVA All-Inclusive

EQUIPMENT:

  • Two single beds (set apart on request)
  • Window (cannot be opened)
  • Beauty products from RITUALS®
  • Flat screen TV
  • Minibar with free water, beer and soft drinks, refilled daily
  • Hair dryer
  • Free WLAN access
  • Telephone, safe and air conditioning/heating
  • Bathroom with shower
  • Generous storage space in wardrobes and under the bed
  • Work area

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casual

Riverside Restaurant

Main restaurant "RIVERSIDE" with flexible dining hours and free choice of seating

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Bar, Lounge

Panorama Salon

In the Panorama Lounge, a cozy atmosphere with a magnificent view awaits you—ideal for winding down the day with a coffee or cocktail. 

Sun Deck

Sun Deck

Enjoy the beautiful view from the sun deck while enjoying a drink on a deck chair.

Reception

Reception

During your river cruise, the reception is open around the clock for you and the staff is always happy to assist you with any concerns or requests.

Shop

On-Board Shop

Would you like a souvenir of your time on board or a gift for loved ones back home? In our on-board boutique you can purchase exclusive souvenirs as well as everyday items and souvenirs.

Library

Library

Library with a selection of various books and games.